Support Visa Waivers for Israel

House and Senate lawmakers have introduced legislation that would enable Israel’s entrance into the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, which would permit Israelis to enter the United States as visitors for up to 90 days without first obtaining a visa.

The House bill (H.R. 300) was introduced by Reps. Brad Sherman (D-CA) and Ted Poe (R-TX). The Senate bill (S. 266) was introduced by Sens. Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Orrin Hatch (R-UT).

Entering the U.S. Visa Waiver Program would pave the way for enhanced bilateral relations between Israel and the United States, strengthening economic and cultural cooperation.

Rep. Brad Sherman on the Visa Waiver Program

Key Points

A Key Ally
Israel is a key U.S. ally and trading partner. Waiving the visa requirement for Israelis visiting America would only deepen the relationship to the mutual benefit of both countries.
Greater Ease of Travel
Currently, Israelis must obtain a visa from the U.S. embassy before travelling to the United States, often a time-consuming process. Entrance into the U.S. Visa Waiver Program would speed up the process by removing this step, facilitating greater ease of travel for tourists, businessmen, and academics.
Enhanced Cooperation
The number of temporary Israeli visitors to the United States –averaging 320,000 annually over the past several years—would rise significantly if Israel is admitted to the Visa Waiver Program. The U.S. economy would receive a boost through enhanced collaboration in research and development, investment, and tourism.